TIDAL RAVE ACRYLIC 10’6 SUP TEST REVIEW
Verdict
It’s great to see a brand having so much fun. Everything from the colourways of the Tidal Rave to the language on their website has a bright, cheerful feel. The Tidal Rave is a straight-ahead 10’6 all-rounder representing hoofing value. It comes packaged with what may be the most comprehensive accessory kit we have seen yet. If you’re after accessible performance with artistic flare and a load of goodies, you can’t go wrong with a Tidal Rave.
Overview
We couldn’t help but smile when we unboxed the Tidal Rave. The colours hit you first; the glowing neons and blacks remind one of an Alienware PC – but then Tidal Rave’s designer has a background in video game design. If you don’t like pink and blue graphics, there are 11 other schemes to choose from. Tidal Rave love to go big on their accessories. This is what’s in the box: chunky backpack with padded shoulder straps and waist belt, roll-top dry-bag, buddy-clips for rafting boards up (or securing valuables), leash, kayak seat, waterproof phone case, carry strap and a three-piece extendable paddle. The board itself has a three-quarter EVA deckpad, reassuringly sturdy inflation point, three carry handles, paddle-securing straps, D-rings for the kayak seat and carry strap, and three quick detach fins.
Brand Claim
The Tidal Rave is a harmonious blend of original art and nautical engineering, perfect for beginners and intermediates alike! Encased in military-grade PVC, it bravely withstands UV and heat, while the extra grip decking secures your stance. Our unrivalled accessory bundle and ingenious kayak conversion kit elevate your maritime journeys, all designed and rigorously tested in the UK. Tidal Rave’s versatility and resilience in all conditions make it an ideal companion for explorers and adventurers. So why wait? Are you ready to make waves? Ready to be more than just a drop in the ocean? Then climb aboard the Tidal Rave and let your most exciting, most unforgettable water adventures begin!
Performance
By now most paddlers know what the ubiquitous 10’6 x 32″ all-rounder offers in terms of paddling experience. The differences between brands often comes down to the entire package, and Tidal Rave have built a huge amount of value into their boards. Before we get on to that, how does it paddle? This is a nice, big, secure board. At 290 litres with a broad nose and wide square tail, it takes the stress away from the first outings. The 10’6 length gives a nice blend of easy glide and manoeuvrability. The Tidal Rave is loaded with useful features for on the water. The front cargo bungee confidently secures your rolled up (supplied) dry bag. The rear bungee is ideal for swim fins or wetsuit tops etc…Both bungees have reinforced sections for clipping things on. There two tough handles over the nose and tail are perfect for portage and towing – we’re a big fan of safety features like this. All fittings look and feel really strong; Tidal Rave have built these boards tough. Special mention must go to the three quick-detach fins. It’s the first time we’ve seen a thruster set up with this fin type and it puts the exclamation mark on what is an already incredibly good value set up. The guys and girls at Tidal Rave are clearly having fun and it shows with these bright, hardy useful boards that they’re aiming at the beginner to intermediate crew.
Further information at tidalravesports.com
TIDAL RAVE ACRYLIC 10’6 SUP TEST REVIEW
Vital Stats
Price: RRP £299.99
Length: 10’6
Length: 10’6
Width: 32″
Thickness: 6″
Volume: 290 litres
Weight: 10.2 kg
Weight: 10.2 kg
Fins: Quick detach. 1 centre plus 2 sides.